I want to use technology to support my teaching

If combined with skilled teaching technology can enhance a lesson and build new skills for learners. We’ve provided some of the highlights that have improved the way sessions are delivered.

What tech?

Interactive Boards

These can be used to great effect if the focus is on involvement, collaboration and an immersive experience. However many colleges report not making use of these or having technical problems. We’ve got some detailed tips on this in our webinar that should help.

Flipped Learning

This is where the learner takes more of a central role in their learning. Rather than a teacher delivering teaching, they set up experiences and tasks so the learners can take more ownership.

So why is this useful? Well, it is an accessible format as the learners can proceed at their own pace and with support, the activities are easier to differentiate and it encourages critical thought.

It lends itself well to technology and you can integrate voting activities such as Kahoot, deliver pre-recorded videos and even run the sessions through online providers.

Khan Academy is an example of a provider of resources to facilitate these activities, but they aren’t a replacement for the teacher – and do require a discerning eye to check the content and delivery is suitable. LearnersCloud is an alternative focused at GCSE subjects. Many people know about Ted Talks, but there is an educational version of this called TedEd where you can find a wealth of interesting videos. Before you know it you’ll be discussing history through the eyes of a chicken or learning if machines can read your emotions.

Teaching for the future

What will the world be like in ten years for our learners?

Are we teaching them the skills to deal with this new world?

If a student can ask Siri or Google something then there is less need for pure retention of information. Instead, we could look to teach research skills, interpersonal skills and focus on project work.  Social stories can be used to map out situations and create resources for students in an easily accessible manner, Pictello is a popular app for these. Puppet Pals is another good way of teaching personal skills and role-playing, especially for those who struggle with personal interaction.

Teaching coding is not only a useful skill in itself – but also can be used to teach teamwork, problem-solving and procedural skills. Why not get started with an hour of code?

Even Lego Education is getting involved, you can enthuse your learners on their site Coding for the real world.

Other Apps

The key to using apps is having clear learning objectives. Here are some key apps:

• Book Creator – Great way for students to show their understanding on a particular subject. Extra ideas and resources available here
• Google Maps – Don’t rule out mainstream tools, learners can navigate the world, with 360° views and satellite imagery. Virtual field trip to the Palace of Westminster anyone? Or just learning how to find the local supermarket?
• Duolingo – Get started within seconds, free resources to study languages at your own pace
• Classroomscreen – A really useful toolbox to help organise and make a session more interesting. Timers, drawings, dice and more.

Virtual Learning Environments (VLE’s)

VLE’s are a popular way of delivering content as it is available to anyone with a computer and an internet connection. JISC provides a guide on Virtual Learning Environments if this sounds like something that would be useful for your organisation.

This article also relates to

I want to provide accessible resources

Questions?

If you have questions about this or other assistive technology related topics please get in touch with TechAbility.